Morrisons chief operating officer Trevor Strain has stepped down, having informed the retailer’s board of his decision today (27 September).
This comes following reported discussions last week that Strain had been considering resigning from the position which he has held since 2019.
Having been at the supermarket giant since 2009, Strain first took on the role as commercial and operations finance director before he was appointed as finance director corporate in 2011, responsible for the company’s productivity programmes.
Speaking of his departure, Strain told Retail Week: “This has been a very difficult decision for me, but I believe if I am to take on a new challenge for the next few years then it would be better to make that change at the start of the Morrisons journey in private equity, and not in the middle of it.
“The pandemic was an incredibly difficult time for everyone, but the way Morrisons rose to that challenge, fed the nation and made sure no one was left behind fills me with pride. I wish David and the whole business the greatest success for the future.”
Morrisons CEO David Potts added: “Trevor has played a pivotal role in the turnaround of Morrisons and his contribution to the business over many years has been very significant. I have worked very closely with him since my first day at Morrisons and his ability to plan and execute complex change and progression at great pace has been invaluable.
“Although I am sad that Trevor has decided to leave, I understand and respect his decision. The central role he played during Morrisons’ performance in the pandemic will be an appropriate and enduring legacy.
“I know I speak for the whole company when I thank him for the huge difference he has made and wish him well for the future.”
